While students were away for the holiday break, the State College Borough Council unanimously passed the 1990 borough budget with increases in real estate taxes and garbage fees.

The near $13.6 million budget received criticism from some members of the community because of the two increases.

Borough Manager Peter Marshall defended the changes, attributing them to rising costs in sewage treatment, waste disposal and water sources.

Councilwoman Jean McManis said she requested that an additional $3,000 be allocated to Home Health Care, increasing the borough's funding of the program to $4,200.

Councilwoman Ruth Lavin requested funding for a pedestrian walk near Orlando Avenue costing $4,000. She also requested that $5,000 be allotted for street lighting.

In other council business, at the first meeting of the year, Gary Wiser was unanimously re-elected council president.

Councilman Jerry Wettstone said the council president's job is to help oversee the activities of the council and to chair council worksessions.

McManis said Wiser has done an excellent job.

"The job is a lot of work, and Gary Wiser has worked very hard and he is totally acceptable," she said.